Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Look no further! Curried quinoa is a flavorful and nutritious base that can be paired with a variety of ingredients to create delicious and quick dinners. With its nutty flavor and fluffy texture, curried quinoa is a great addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore 20 different curried quinoa recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From spicy coconut curries to creamy soups, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for something savory and comforting or light and refreshing, these curried quinoa recipes are sure to hit the spot. And the best part? They’re all quick and easy to make, so you can get dinner on the table in no time.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 flavorful curried quinoa recipes, featuring a mix of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Get ready to spice up your meal routine!
Spicy Coconut Curried Quinoa
This flavorful quinoa dish combines the warm spices of Indian cuisine with the creamy richness of coconut milk, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With the added kick of red pepper flakes, this recipe is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and red pepper flakes (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until quinoa is fully incorporated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any meal. This recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the warm spices of curry and the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. While quinoa cooks, toss onion, garlic, bell pepper, and sweet potato with olive oil, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and stir in roasted vegetables.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai-Inspired Curried Quinoa Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the warmth of curry with the nutty goodness of quinoa, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Juice of 1 lime (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in curry powder and cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add it to the pan. Toss to combine.
5. Stir in cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with lime juice if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Chickpea Stew
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the comforting warmth of curry.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the quinoa, chickpeas, water or broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Golden Turmeric Curried Quinoa
Add a pop of sunshine to your meal with this vibrant and flavorful quinoa dish, infused with the warmth of turmeric and curry powder. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add turmeric and curry powder; cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add quinoa and water/broth to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork; season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Curried Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, this recipe combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the warm spices of Indian-inspired curry. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together quinoa, olive oil, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and sprinkle with cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Curried Quinoa Soup
Warm up with this comforting and aromatic soup, perfect for a cozy evening or as a nutritious meal prep option. This creamy curried quinoa soup is packed with protein-rich quinoa, nourishing vegetables, and a hint of warm curry spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add quinoa, vegetable broth, curry powder, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until quinoa is cooked.
3. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Mango and Cashews
This vibrant dish combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the warm, aromatic spices of curry, sweet mango, and crunchy cashews. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) over medium heat.
3. Add cooked quinoa to the skillet and stir to combine with spices.
4. Fold in diced mango and chopped cashews.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Lentil Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the comforting warmth of lentils, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic curry sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cooked lentils, diced tomatoes, and cooked quinoa. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Spinach and Feta
This flavorful side dish combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the tanginess of feta, all wrapped up in a warm, aromatic curry. Perfect for accompanying your favorite protein or vegetable dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and curry powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Add it to the skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Wilt spinach leaves into the quinoa mixture by cooking until just heated through.
6. Top with feta cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Sweet Potato Hash
This flavorful and nutritious dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a brunch gathering. The combination of quinoa, sweet potatoes, and curry powder creates a deliciously aromatic hash that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring quinoa and 2 cups water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. Meanwhile, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
5. Stir in curry powder and cook for an additional minute.
6. Combine cooked quinoa, sweet potatoes, and curry mixture in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Grilled Chicken
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the spices of India, served with juicy grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large saucepan, bring quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender.
3. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork. Stir in the onion mixture. Serve with grilled chicken and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Black Bean Tacos
Transform traditional tacos with a flavorful twist by combining the warmth of curry spices with nutty quinoa, creamy black beans, and crunchy veggies. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a delicious addition to your next taco Tuesday.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, salsa, cilantro, lime wedges for toppings
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add black beans, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked quinoa with the bean mixture.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning quinoa mixture onto tortillas and adding desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Coconut Milk and Lime
A flavorful and nutritious side dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the creamy richness of coconut milk, warm spices, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh lime juice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and fluffy.
3. While the quinoa cooks, mix together the curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and salt in a small bowl.
4. Once the quinoa is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the coconut milk and spice mixture.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Elevate your meal game with this flavorful and nutritious Curried Quinoa and Cauliflower Rice Bowl recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. Rinse cauliflower and remove leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender and lightly browned.
5. Serve cooked quinoa in a bowl topped with curried cauliflower rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Crispy Tofu
Discover the perfect fusion of flavors and textures in this easy-to-make recipe. Curried quinoa and crispy tofu come together to create a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into cubes
– 1 cup cornstarch
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in cumin and curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked quinoa to the pan, stirring to combine with spice mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. Meanwhile, prepare tofu by coating cubes with cornstarch.
6. Fry tofu cubes in a little oil until crispy (about 3-4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve curried quinoa with crispy tofu on top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Eggplant Curry
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the rich, spicy taste of curry and the tender texture of eggplant. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add eggplant and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and cooked quinoa. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Pineapple and Cilantro
This flavorful and nutritious dish combines the warmth of curry powder with the sweetness of pineapple and freshness of cilantro, all wrapped up in a protein-packed quinoa bowl.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small pineapple, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Salt to taste
• Cooking oil or butter for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth.
2. Heat a non-stick pan with cooking oil or butter over medium heat.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add curry powder and stir for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Stir in cooked quinoa, pineapple, and chopped cilantro.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Quinoa and Shrimp Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the nutty taste of quinoa with succulent shrimp, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork; add to skillet. Toss to combine with shrimp mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Curried Quinoa with Zucchini and Tomatoes
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the warmth of curry spices with the freshness of zucchini and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add zucchini and tomato; cook for 5-6 minutes, or until tender.
5. Stir in curry powder and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork and add to the skillet. Toss to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavor and convenience of curried quinoa recipes for busy weeknights! With 20 mouthwatering options, you’ll never run out of ideas. From Spicy Coconut Curried Quinoa to Curried Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers, each recipe combines the nutty goodness of quinoa with the warmth of curry spices. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, these recipes are also packed with nutritious ingredients like roasted vegetables, lentils, and chickpeas. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting or exotic, there’s a curried quinoa recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
